Intervention in alcohol use disorder in a general practice

To report the outcome of intervention in 70 patients with alcohol use disorder in a general practice.

Of the 84 patients age 18-69 years identified clinically or by a screening programme with alcohol use disorder, 70 who were available for at least 2 year follow up after diagnosis were included in the study group. The clinical notes of these patients were reviewed to determine evidence of sustained achievement of abstinence or controlled drinking and factors contributing to successful change in alcohol use.

Sustained abstinence or controlled drinking was verified for 31 patients (44%) with a further 26 patients (37%) reporting reduction in alcohol use without evidence of sustained improvement. The mean interval from diagnosis to sustained improvement was 4 years. Only five patients accepted referral to specialist alcohol units. Successful change in the 31 patients achieving their drinking goal was directly related to intervention at the surgery for 9 patients.

A motivational approach with focus on the patient's perception of the issues proved relatively successful in this practice. A prolonged period of change was required to achieve drinking goals. Other factors contributing to improvement are discussed.